Chili Mac

Kiddos in the Kitchen – Kids’ Activities

Fun With Pasta

Pasta comes in many shapes and varieties, with 310 specific forms known by over 1300 documented names. Common forms of pasta include long and short shapes, tubes, flat shapes or sheets, miniature shapes for soup, those meant to be filled or stuffed, and specialty or decorative shapes. Look at all the different shapes pasta comes in!

Pasta isn’t just good for eating. Because it comes in so many interesting shapes, it’s fun to create with. You can make mosaic art, jewelry, garlands, or use it to decorate boxes or jars. Check out the link below for so fun ideas for pasta crafts.

Where Does Pasta Come From?

Below are two videos showing where pasta comes from. One is true and one is false. Can you identify which is which?

Now Let’s Make the Recipe!

Another classic, easy, comfort food recipe. This deliciously easy macaroni dish features simple, economical, and healthy ingredients. It takes very little time and effort to put together. Simply boil the pasta, saute the meat and veggies, add seasoning, and top with shredded cheese. It can also work with ground turkey, pork, or Beyond Beef crumbles as an alternative to ground beef. Enjoy!

  • 1/2 lb elbow macaroni
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 bell pepper, diced
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 – 28 oz can fire-roasted tomatoes
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • Sea salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 cup grated cheddar

Instructions:

Boil water; add pasta and cook al dente. Drain & rinse with cold water. Brown beef until cooked through. Add pepper and onion and sauté until onion is tender. Add garlic and cook 1 minute. Add tomatoes, spices, salt and pepper. Stir in pasta; heat. Top with grated cheddar and serve.